The Izard County Lady Cougars volleyball team has made a strong start this season, with aspirations to secure a spot in the Class 2A state tournament. Head coach Billy McBride told KTLO that despite fielding a young roster, the team has a solid chance to accomplish their goal.
The Lady Cougars improved their record to 3-1, 1-1 in conference play, after hosting Omaha for a hard-fought match on Tuesday evening. Izard County started with back-to-back 27-25 set wins, highlighted by Kallie Skidmore’s set-point tap and key contributions from Willie Everett and Trinity Gaskins. Although Omaha rallied to win the third set 28-26, Izard County closed out the match with a decisive 25-16 victory in the fourth set, powered by Everett’s serving and kills from Skidmore and Kenzi Stillman.
Izard County’s season opened with a loss to Cotter—the current 2A-2 conference leader—but McBride noted the development of several underclassmen stepping into pivotal roles. The Lady Cougars aim to stay competitive as they prepare for future conference matchups.
In other action Tuesday night, Cotter swept Viola in three sets, improving their record to 8-2 overall and 2-0 in conference play. The Lady Warriors dominated with contributions from players like Bailey Ivens and Myhah McNutt, winning 25-8, 25-8, and 25-9.
Green Forest defeated Yellville-Summit in straight sets, with scores of 29-27, 25-18, and 25-25. True Layton and Trinity Story were among the standout players for the Lady Panthers in the close match.
Flippin’s Lady Bobcats also secured a sweep over Valley Springs with a commanding performance. Key plays included ace serves by Cady Jennings and kills from teammates Hadley Moore and Ava Moore in a match that ended 25-4, 25-13, and 25-10.
The Salem vs. Melbourne matchup extended to a dramatic fifth and deciding set. Salem’s Lady Greyhounds ultimately prevailed, 15-13, clinching the game with a final block by Tinsley Leslie. The teams had traded momentum throughout, with Jailyn Strong, Reece Nelson, and Natalie Burk helping Salem secure a critical win.
As the season progresses, volleyball teams across North Arkansas continue to display competitive energy and skill in the Class 2A region.